Maybe you’ve never heard of the East Portland neighborhood Russell. But it’s an affordable, safe, and largely residential neighborhood near the Gresham border.
“Nobody knows where it is, and they're like, 'Where do you live?'” says Danielle Mangone, a Russell resident who’s part of the City Cast Creator Community. She gave us a peek at why you might want to get to know more about her neighborhood.
“ I left my window [at my house] open by accident on a two-week trip,” she said. “Literally no one touched it, so it's very quiet — and very much a neighborhood.”
Location: It’s east of Parkrose (and west of Wilkes), very close to Gresham. Russell lies between Northeast 122nd Avenue and 142nd Avenue, with Interstate 84 at the northern edge and Northeast Halsey Street to the south.
🌲 Parks and Golf
The neighborhood has outstanding views — of Mt. Hood and Mt. Saint Helens on clear days. But there are also spots for outdoor recreation:
Named for a local community leader, the 10-acre park in the neighborhood has a small Douglas fir forest for an escape into nature.
There's a golf course at the edge of the Russell neighborhood. It also has disc golf — and a nature trail too. (If you go for a hike, watch out for flying golf balls and leave your dog at home for this one.)
McGillacuddy’s is a favorite spot for Russell neighborhood residents. (Danielle Mangone / @pnwplanned)
🍴 Food and Drink
The area around Russell neighborhood has a bunch of food and drink options.
”There are a ton of businesses out here that really could use your support,” says Mangone. “We're talking local, small mom-and-pop businesses that are really only getting business from this specific area. So if you have a free weekend, and you're kind of bored, come out here and explore the area.”
This beloved vegan coffee shop and grocery store have plenty of appeal for non-vegans, too. And for the warmer sunnier months, they have a dog-friendly patio.
“ It is the largest portion of food for the smallest amount of money,” says Mangone. “And it is amazing.”
The Asian American supermarket chain opened its second Portland location in East Portland this summer. You can find food and flavors you won’t find elsewhere. One example: egg yolk-flavored potato chips, which are a little sweeter and richer than your average salty potato chip.
Before or after a trip to 99 Ranch, stop into the boba tea chain's shop next door.
They’ve got a few locations, but the East Portland location might just be the best. “Something that's really cool and unique about this location is not only do they have food trucks, but they have a very large backyard area with its own dog park,” says Mangone.
Go for the name alone! They’ve got sports playing on the big screens. But there are also personal TVs in the booths (if you want to watch cartoons instead).
More: Follow Danielle Mangone on Instagram @pnwplanned.
